Segment:
A rugged and capable full-size pickup truck known for its utility and towing capabilities.
Competitors:
Ford F-Series, Chevrolet C/K Series (Silverado), GMC Sierra.
Powertrain Options:
Available with a range of V6 and V8 gasoline engines, offering strong towing and hauling performance.
Chassis Design:
Body-on-frame construction for durability and load-bearing capacity, often featuring robust suspension components like the Twin Traction Beam front suspension on 4x4 models.
Utility:
Designed for work and recreation, with ample cargo bed space and towing capacity.
Engine:
Engine mechanical, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel system, ignition system, emission control systems, engine diagnostics, troubleshooting.
Transmission:
Manual and automatic transmission repair, overhaul, diagnostics, fluid specifications, shift control, torque converter operation.
Drivetrain:
Front axle, rear axle, driveshafts, universal joints, constant velocity joints (if applicable), differential repair, lubrication.
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system, disc brakes, drum brakes, anti-lock braking system (ABS) operation and diagnostics, parking brake, brake fluid specifications.
Suspension:
Front suspension (e.g., Twin Traction Beam), rear suspension (leaf springs), steering system (power steering), wheel alignment specifications, shock absorbers, ball joints, bushings.
Electrical:
Battery, starting system, charging system (alternator), lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior), fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, power windows, power locks, trailer wiring.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system components, refrigerant handling, diagnostics, repair procedures.
Body:
Body panels, doors, hood, tailgate, interior trim, glass replacement, weatherstripping, paint repair information.
Chassis:
Frame structure, body-to-frame mounting, exhaust system, fuel tank and lines, radiator support.
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance checks, oil changes, filter replacements, tune-ups, belt and hose inspections, chassis lubrication.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, common problem identification and solutions.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all major vehicle systems, including component removal, overhaul, and reinstallation.
Diagnostics:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation, scan tool usage, component testing procedures (ohms, voltage, current).
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid checks and filter changes to full engine and transmission rebuilds, electrical system diagnostics, and body panel repair.
Engine Options:
5.2L V8 (318 cu in) Magnum, 5.9L V8 (360 cu in) Magnum, 3.9L V6 (239 cu in) Magnum.
5.2L V8 Horsepower:
Approx. 230 hp @ 4,500 rpm
5.2L V8 Torque:
Approx. 300 lb-ft @ 3,200 rpm
5.9L V8 Horsepower:
Approx. 245 hp @ 4,500 rpm
5.9L V8 Torque:
Approx. 330 lb-ft @ 3,200 rpm
3.9L V6 Horsepower:
Approx. 175 hp @ 4,800 rpm
3.9L V6 Torque:
Approx. 225 lb-ft @ 3,200 rpm
Injection Type:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPI)
Ignition Type:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) on some later models, or conventional distributor ignition.
Transmission Options:
Manual transmission (e.g., 5-speed) and automatic transmission (e.g., 4-speed, 46RE/47RE).
Transfer Case:
Part-time 4WD transfer case (e.g., NP231, NP241).
Automatic Transmission Features:
Electronic overdrive, torque converter lock-up for improved fuel efficiency.
Wheelbase:
Varies by configuration (e.g., 112" for regular cab short bed, 130" for regular cab long bed, 140" for club cab short bed).
Overall Length:
Varies by configuration (e.g., approx. 198" for short bed, 222" for long bed).
Overall Width:
Approx. 79.1 inches
Overall Height:
Approx. 74.7 inches
Bed Length:
Available in approx. 6.5 ft and 8 ft lengths.
Curb Weight:
Varies by configuration (e.g., approx. 4,200 - 5,000+ lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies by configuration (e.g., 6,300 - 6,600+ lbs)
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000 - 5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Check manual for specific recommendations.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Automatic transmissions: approximately every 30,000 - 60,000 miles. Manual transmissions: check fluid level periodically, change as recommended (often 60,000 - 100,000 miles).
Coolant Flush:
Typically every 30,000 - 50,000 miles or 2-3 years. Use of correct coolant is critical.
Engine Oil:
Refer to manual, but typically SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 for gasoline engines. API classification SG or higher.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
ATF+3 (Chrysler specification) or equivalent for 46RE/47RE. Check manual for exact type.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
Gear oil, typically GL-5, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90. Refer to manual for specific transmission.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 hydraulic brake fluid.
Power Steering Fluid:
Refer to manual, often ATF+3 or specific power steering fluid.
Common Problems:
Radiator leaks, transmission solenoid issues (especially on older automatics), U-joint wear, minor electrical gremlins, ball joint wear (on Twin Traction Beam), exhaust manifold cracks on some V8s.
Body Rust:
Susceptible to rust in areas with harsh winters, particularly on frame rails, rocker panels, and wheel wells.
Dodge Truck Legacy:
Dodge has a long-standing history in the truck market, with the Ram nameplate evolving over decades to represent durability and capability.
Third Generation Ram:
The 1995 model falls within the second generation of the Dodge Ram (1994-2001), which introduced a significant redesign with a bold, aggressive styling and improved aerodynamics.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in the United States (e.g., Warren Truck Assembly Plant, Michigan).
Key Updates 1995:
While the major redesign was in 1994, specific powertrain and feature refinements may have occurred for the 1995 model year.